When an accident occurs, it can be difficult to wrap your head around what has just happened. There’s the police, the other drivers involved, potential serious injuries, and figuring out what to do first. It can be especially upsetting if you are the one responsible for the accident.
Here are some steps to take if you find yourself at fault in an automobile accident:
Be Honest
Honesty is the best policy when it comes to automobile accidents. However, you should never admit fault to accident at the scene of the crash. Doing so could appear as an admission of guilt and make you unfairly responsible for the damages. If you are uncertain about who caused the accident, it’s in your best interest to wait for an official investigation and talk to an auto accident attorney before taking responsibility.
Report the Accident
Always call the police and report the accident, especially if you are the one at fault. This holds true for even minor fender-benders, and it’s standard police procedure to deal with accidents. Do not move any vehicles involved unless it is unsafe to stay put; the police will handle the investigation.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Your insurance company will want to hear about the accident ASAP, and it’s important to keep them informed. Record the names, insurance providers, and phone numbers of anyone else involved in the accident and have them handy when speaking to your insurance company.
Familiarize Yourself with State Laws
Make sure that you understand your state’s laws concerning insurance premiums and in automobile accidents. It pays to be familiar with this knowledge during the chaos of an accident.
Be Aware of Raised Premiums
Many factors go into determining your car insurance premium, and being involved in an accident is certainly one of them. While a raised premium is a possibility after an accident, this should not change the story you report to your insurance company. Honesty will benefit you in the end, and it can save you a lot of headache.
If you’ve been in a car accident, let us help with your legal needs. You can contact us at our website, over the phone at (800) 637-7024, or in person. We’re happy to be your legal team!
